NDC Condemns Restriction on Rawlings' movement

Sekondi, July 27, GNA - The Western Regional branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed disgust over what it perceived as attempts to restrict the free movement of former president Jerry John Rawlings.

In a statement, the party described as "frivolous, mischievous and unacceptable," the disapproval by Alhaji Mustapha Ali Idris, Minister for Works and Housing of the intended visit of the former president to the Keta Sea Defence Project site.

The statement signed by Mr. Yaw Boateng Gyan, NDC Regional Organizer, said the citing of inadequate security by the sector minister as reasons for the cancellation of the visit was untenable, especially when the Keta District Assembly, had approved the visit.

The statement said the move by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government was one of the numerous attempts to restrict the former president from visiting some areas including military barracks and installations and added that, "this should be condemned by all peace loving and democratic minded citizens."

It called on democratic forces and human rights activists, to join the NDC to condemn "this behaviour of the NPP government," adding that, "it is the responsibility of the government to provide needed security at such areas,"

"All legal and democratic means will be applied to enable Flt. Lt. Rawlings to visit the project, which is so dear to his heart", the statement added.